INFORMATION ON BECKER'S MYOTONIA

Becker's Myotonia may be defined as a neurological disorder which is characterized by the slow relaxation of the muscles after voluntary contraction or electrical stimulation. Repeated effort is needed to relax the muscles, and the condition improves after the muscles have warmed-up. Most children will be 2 or 3 years old when parents first notice their muscle stiffness, particularly in the legs, often provoked by sudden activity after rest. Becker's Myotonia is of two forms: Becker-type, which is the most common form; and Thomsen’s disease, which is a rare and milder form.

SYNONYMS OF BECKER'S MYOTONIA

Synonyms of Becker's Myotonia are:

1. Thomsen's Myotonia.
2. Becker's Myotonia.
3. Myotonia.

CAUSES OF BECKER'S MYOTONIA

Becker's Myotonia dystrophy is caused by an inherited gene defect named triple repeat on chromosome 19. The main consequences which are responsible for the development of Becker's Myotonia are Hereditary, Abnormality in the muscle membrane, and Exposure to cold, Eating foods that are potassium-rich.

SYMPTOMS OF BECKER'S MYOTONIA

Symptoms of Becker's Myotonia are:

1. Frequent falls.
2. Large calf muscles.
3. Difficulty getting up from a lying or sitting position.
4. Weakness in lower leg muscles.
5. Difficulty running and jumping.
6. Waddling gait.
7. Mild mental retardation.

DIAGNOSIS OF BECKER'S MYOTONIA

Clinically Becker's Myotonia can be diagnosed by:-

1. Muscles biopsy.
2. Electromyography.
3. Genetic testing.

TREATMENT OF BECKER'S MYOTONIA

Most people with Becker's Myotonia don’t require special treatments. Treatment for Becker's Myotonia may include medicines like quinine, phenytoin, mexiletine, and other anticonvulsant drugs. Another way of treating subject suffering from Becker's Myotonia is by physical therapy. Stiff muscles usually resolve with exercise, or light movement, especially after resting.